7 Drinks you should avoid during acid reflux

Acid reflux, also known as acidity is a common problem that we experience every so often. It is a digestive issue during which the stomach acids and contents flow up in the esophagus due to impaired functioning of lower esophageal sphincter (LES). In most cases, it is an aftermath of unhealthy lifestyle habits and bad food behaviours. For instance, overeating, excess consumption of spicy foods, smoking, sedentary living etc are some of the most common causes of acid reflux.

A burning (painful) sensation that moves from the stomach to abdomen and eventually in the lower chest area and throat is the most common symptom of acid reflux. It also causes regurgitation, an irritating experience that leaves a bitter-tasting acid backing up in the throat or mouth. It prevails as a minor problem most-of-the-time, but in case you experience acid reflux and heartburn frequently, you should consider medical assistance as it could be an indication of a more serious problem, Gastro-esophageal Reflux Disease (GERD).

Nevertheless, minor acidity is not troubling and by good fortunes, is treatable as well as preventable. Making health food choices, adhering to an active lifestyle, and avoiding acidity triggers are some of the easiest ways of minimizing the risk of having an acid reflux. Interestingly, some drinks and beverages are more likely to trigger acid reflux symptoms than others and thus, should preferably be avoided.

Here are some drinks that you should avoid:

1. Alcohol
Alcohol is one of the most unsafe beverages for your overall health. While affecting the liver adversely, it appears to interact with our stomach and esophagus on a variety of levels to cause acid reflux. It also damages the esophageal mucosa, the inner lining of esophagus and may lead to inflammation. Moreover, alcohol also makes our body dehydrated and may cause other symptoms like bloating, nausea, and abdominal pain.

2. Soft drinks
Soft drinks or carbonated beverages like cola, fizzy drinks, mocktails, and sparkling water cause gastric distension and may increase pressure on the LES. This eventually weakens the LES and allows stomach acid to flow back in the food pipe to cause acid reflux.

3. Citrus juices
Citrus juices like orange juice, mosambi juice, and lemon juice are acidic in nature. They contain citrus acid that irritates our esophagus and relaxes LES. This can eventually increase the chances of triggering acidity and acid reflux.

4. High calorie beverages
High calorie beverages like thick milk shakes, caramel and cream coffee, ice tea with cream, non-fruit smoothies etc. can surge your daily calorie intake. Moreover, they are artificially sweetened and can lead to various digestive discomforts like abdominal pain, nausea along with heartburn and acidity.

5. Spicy beverages
Spicy foods are one of the most common acid reflux triggers. This makes beverages like Mexican hot chocolate and Bloody Mary highly unfavourable drinks if you’re prone to acidity and heartburn. Spices tend to trigger a reflux of gastric juices (present in the stomach) into the esophagus and cause regurgitation and heartburn.

6. Coffee
Like it or not, but coffee is one of the most common acid reflux triggers. Excess consumption of caffeine tends to relax the LES and allows stomach contents to flow back in food pipe and cause acid reflux. Thus, you should avoid having multiple cups of coffee during the day.

7. Milk
Milk is a rich source of calcium and one of the healthiest beverages one can consume. However, same can’t be asserted for lactose intolerant people. They tend to have a sensitive stomach and may become vulnerable to acid reflux when they consume dairy based beverages.

Fortunately, acid reflux is a minor problem that can be relieved easily with home remedies for acidity and gas problem and with over-the-counter products like tablets for gas and acidity or natural antacids like Gas-O-Fast. It is loaded with the goodness of ayurveda and natural ingredients for ensuring instant relief from acidity. For instance, Gas-O-Fast Jeera boasts the nutrition of ayurveda backed herb, jeera and works as a natural medicine for acidity.